Senior writer for The Sunday Age

Feelings of isolation, boredom and conflict with family were listed as major worries for the 500 people surveyed.

ONE in three young Australians says Christmas makes them feel worried, depressed and lonely, a survey has revealed.

The poll of 12 to 25-year-olds, also found that 16 per cent were dreading Christmas so much they would be relieved if it was cancelled.

The figures - commissioned by youth national mental health foundation headspace - have prompted calls for young people to be better supported during the summer holidays.

Feelings of isolation, boredom and conflict with family were listed as major worries for the 500 people surveyed.

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Of the 88 per cent who said they had some negative thoughts about Christmas, two-thirds said they experienced tension with relatives. One in three worried about not having their friends around and being alone, while more than half had concerns about spending too much money.

''For young people, most of their support is through their friendships, and over Christmas they lose that structure, particularly those who are isolated from their friends in rural and regional areas,'' said headspace chief executive Chris Tanti. ''That creates enormous problems for kids, particularly if they have a pretty average relationship with their parents and the rest of their family.

''It's a very social period as well, so if you struggle with anxiety in that context, then it makes it a very difficult time. For certain young people who are depressed, all of those feelings are heightened - the sense of alienation, the fact they can't even get into the spirit of being with their families and giving and receiving gifts and socialising. They're more likely to blame themselves and feel a lot worse because they can't just do what everyone else is able to do.''

The survey also found that social media was an important tool in helping young people alleviate the stresses of the Christmas holidays.

More than half said they would use it to escape family tensions and loneliness, while 46 per cent said it would help them feel less depressed.

Jane Burns, head of the Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre - a not-for-profit organisation exploring the role of technology in improving youth mental health - said social media played a vital role for young people during difficult times.

''Meaningful relationships are important for a sense of wellbeing, and being able to connect through social media to other young people really does give that sense of purpose and connection,'' Dr Burns said.

Mr Tanti said more investment was needed in mental health services during the festive period as many services were scaled back. Those experiencing difficulties were encouraged to limit alcohol use, reach out to friends, and access online counselling services such as eheadspace for support.